2017 Peugeot Traveller 2.0L Diesel · WM13 GAS

The latest MOT test for the 2017 Peugeot Traveller on 2026-07-20 resulted in a pass, though several advisories were noted, indicating ongoing but not critical issues. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a pattern of recurring advisories and one past failure, particularly in suspension and tyre wear, which suggests a need for proactive attention rather than a purely stable trend. While the majority of MOTs have passed without major defects, the repeated wear on suspension components—such as the excessively worn offside front lower suspension ball joint from 2024’s failure and the near-side front suspension arm pin or bush from 2026—demonstrates persistent mechanical stress, likely exacerbated by either heavy use or suboptimal maintenance. The advisories on brake discs and tyre perishing further underscore the need for diligent inspection, as these issues can escalate into more costly repairs if ignored. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 96,785 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,754 miles per year, which is typical for a nine-year-old car driven in mixed conditions. The consistent mileage accumulation over the years suggests regular, albeit not necessarily aggressive, use, which helps mitigate some wear but does not entirely prevent cumulative damage to critical systems. However, the presence of a significant gap between the 2022 MOT and the subsequent failures in 2024 and 2026—particularly the 18-month interval between the 2022 test and the 2024 failure—could indicate periods of prolonged inactivity, during which standing corrosion, fluid degradation, or component stiffness may have developed. This raises concerns about potential hidden wear or structural integrity issues, especially in suspension and drivetrain components, which are more prone to deterioration when stationary for extended periods. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension system, brake components, and drivetrain seals. The advisories on the front suspension arm pin or bush and the offside front lower ball joint warrant immediate attention, as excessive wear in these areas can lead to uneven ride quality, clunking noises (particularly when driving over bumps or at speed), and eventual failure that could compromise steering control. Listen for any persistent clunking or rattling from the front suspension during acceleration, braking, or cornering, and check for excessive play in the steering wheel or wheel alignment. The severely deteriorated CV boots from previous MOTs suggest that the outer drive shafts may be leaking lubricant, leading to increased noise or vibration when accelerating or turning sharply; inspect for grease smears around the joints and listen for whining or grinding sounds during the test drive. Additionally, the worn brake discs should be closely examined for warping, scoring, or excessive thickness reduction, as they may require resurfacing or replacement if the wear has progressed beyond the legal limit. Beyond the mechanical checks, the tyre advisories—particularly the cracking or perishing noted in 2026—highlight the importance of inspecting the sidewall condition, as old tyres can develop cracks or delamination, which may not be visible from the tread surface alone. Check for any signs of dry rot, particularly around the shoulder areas, and measure the remaining tread depth to ensure compliance with legal limits. The vehicle’s age and the potential for prolonged inactivity also necessitate a thorough inspection of the battery, as standing corrosion or internal degradation can lead to failure without warning. Test the 12V battery’s charge capacity by attempting to start the engine and monitoring the voltage output; a weak battery may struggle to engage the starter motor or maintain electrical systems. Finally, given the calendar-based nature of fluid degradation—especially in fluids like brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant—consider having the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, even if the mileage is moderate. For a nine-year-old car, a full fluid refresh every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two to three years, whichever comes first, is advisable to prevent premature wear on seals, bearings, and other internal components.